Research Group: Centre for Research in String Theory Length of Study in Years: 3-4 Full-time Project: yes
Since the seminal papers by Bekenstein and Hawking it is known that quantum mechanically black holes should be described by mixed states that obey thermodynamic relations analogous to those describing non-gravitational systems. It is still a challenge today to provide a consistent and complete quantum mechanical description of the states (called microstates) that can explain statistically the thermodynamic laws mentioned above. The PhD project offered focuses on this problem from a string theory perspective and aims to better characterise the generic properties of the microstates for different types of black holes. In particular, in string theory, black holes are realised as bound states of many basic constituents, such as perturbative string states and branes. Different techniques, ranging from the use of the AdS/CFT duality to that of string amplitudes in presence of D-branes, will be employed to derive quantitative information on the nature of the relevant microstates.
A good knowledge of basic Quantum Field Theory and General Relativity. Some knowledge of String Theory and Supersymmetry will be an advantage.
SPCS Academics: Rodolfo Russo